Note

Asylum claimants' passports and travel/identity documents

The CBSA holds the passports and travel/identity documents of asylum claimants in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and retains them until the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada makes a determination on the claim.

The CBSA cannot share any personal information on these individuals or their belongings.

At the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle, QC port of entry, the Canadian Red Cross will offer phones to asylum seekers to help them contact their families.

Mail processing delays

The CBSA is experiencing unprecedented volumes of mail arriving in Canada. The CBSA and Canada Post are working diligently to process your item and appreciate your patience.